If there was an activity out there that could not only cleanse your mind through meditation, but also teach you self-defense methods at the same time, wouldn’t you want to give it a try? Well you can, right here in Golden. The activity is call Tai Chi, an ancient internal Chinese martial art that uses balance, flexibility, and breathing techniques to not only strengthen your body, but your mind as well.
“Tai Chi is not the type of martial art that most people think of when they hear the term “martial arts”. Although Tai Chi can be combative, that is not what the activity is primarily about. It is more about learning how to draw out the internal energy within you,” Tai Chi Instructor, B Cacaci said of the sport.
Tai Chi can be considered as a moving form of yoga. Through the cultivation of energy within your body, Tai Chi is considered to be extraordinary for your health.
“With Tai Chi, you have to use all the muscles in your body at once, and you must also have great core strength. It also takes a lot of co-ordination due to the fact that often your arms and legs are moving in opposite manners. Tai Chi increases flexibility, balance, and bone density,” Cacaci added.
Unlike many other martial arts, Tai Chi does not have a belt system. This means that there is no visible ladder to climb, but respect is earned through time put in.
“We have no belts in Tai Chi. Your “belts” are earned through the time you put in. There is quite a learning curve with Tai Chi. You have to not only attend the classes, but you have also got to train at home, without an instructor. If not, you’ll find yourself falling behind very quickly. It is not a once-a-week sport,” Cacaci said.
For anyone looking to sweat profusely, perhaps Tai Chi is not for you.
“Tai Chi is not an aerobic exercise by any means, there is little sweat involved. Although, with deep internal energy and concentration, there is the potential for some sweating, but not the kind some people may be looking for,” Cacaci said of the intensity of Tai Chi.
Saying that, Tai Chi is not as easy as it may appear.
“Tai Chi is not simple. It takes much time to master. It is not due to the fact that it is extremely physically demanding, you just need a lot of mental discipline,” Cacaci said.
As for B Cacaci himself, he has been in the Tai Chi loop for nearly two decades.
“I’ve been doing Tai Chi now for 16 or 17 years. As for instructing, I have been doing it here in Golden for 12 years now,” Cacaci said of his experience.
Cacaci’s winter Tai Chi sessions started on January 17th and will be continuing on throughout the winter months. For more information on the Tai Chi sessions, contact Mr. Cacaci by phone at: 250-348-2363 or via email at: chinadoll@redshift.bc.ca
